Game system

ABSTRACT

A game system includes a main controller that operates to: control the main display to display an image for providing the game; store a plurality of game conditions that define different conditions for playing the game; select one from among the stored game conditions in accordance with a result of a previous game; provide the game to the players under the selected game condition while controlling the main display to display a presentation image that is defined for the selected game condition; and provide an award to a player who wins the game.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO THE RELATED APPLICATION(S)

The present application is based upon and claims priority from priorJapanese Patent Application No. 2006-258103, filed on Sep. 22, 2006, theentire content of which are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a game system that provides a game inwhich a plurality of players participates.

BACKGROUND

In a conventional a game system that provides a game, such as ahorse-racing game, in which a plurality of players participates byinserting a game medium such as coins, medals and tokens, each of theplayers makes a prediction on a result of the game and inserts a gamemedium to perform a bet. According to result of the game, a game mediumis paid out to the players who won on the basis of a predetermined awardtable and the number of inserted game mediums.

A document JP-A-2004-041714 describes an example of such game systemthat provides a game in which, when a horse (or a similar movableobject) that is defined to be owned by a player achieves a predeterminedresult (for example, winning a horse race), a special award is paid outto the player.

As mentioned above, the related-art game system allows the players toenjoy a game by changing awards according to the result of the game. Inaddition, a large display screen is prepared for a common game, and apresentation image (e.g., the scene of a racecourse, a race image, orthe like) for causing the players to enjoy the common game to a muchgreater extent is displayed on the display screen. An example of suchgame system is described in JP-A-2004-041714.

However, in relation to the presentation image of the game system, onlya predetermined presentation image is displayed at all times regardlessof insertion of a game medium performed by the player or an award.Accordingly, in order to make a player enjoy a game further, a gamesystem in which a presentation image changes according to a progress ingame has been awaited.

SUMMARY

One of objects of the present invention is to provide a game system thatprovides a game to a plurality of players in which a presentation imagechanges according to a progress in game in order to allow the players tofurther enjoy the game.

According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a gamesystem that provides a game in which a plurality of players participate,the game system including: a main display; a plurality of playerterminals that are provided for each of the players, each of the playerterminals being provided with a game medium input unit that allows therespective players to input game medium; and a main controller that isconnected to the main display and the player terminals. The maincontroller operates to: control the main display to display an image forproviding the game; store a plurality of game conditions that definedifferent conditions for playing the game; select one from among thestored game conditions in accordance with a result of a previous game;provide the game to the players under the selected game condition whilecontrolling the main display to display a presentation image that isdefined for the selected game condition; and provide an award to aplayer who wins the game.

According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a gamesystem that provides a common game in which a plurality of playersparticipate; the common game in which the respective players predictresult of the game and insert game medium; and in which game medium ispaid out according to an award corresponding to result of the game, thegame system including: a game execution controller that controlsexecution of the common game; a payout controller that performs controloperation for paying out the game medium according to the awardcorresponding to the result of the game; a display unit that displaysthe common game as a presentation image; a display controller thatcontrols the display unit to display the presentation image; a gamecondition storage unit that stores a plurality of game conditions forthe common game; and a game condition selection unit that selects onefrom among the plurality of game conditions stored in the game conditionstorage unit, wherein the game condition selection unit selects the gamecondition for the next common game from among the game conditionsaccording to a result of a game executed by the game executioncontroller, wherein the game execution controller executes the commongame compliant with the game condition selected by the game conditionselection unit, and wherein the display controller performs controloperation for displaying the presentation image compliant with the gamecondition selected by the game condition selection unit.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the accompanying drawings:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of a game systemaccording to an embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an appearance of a player terminalof the embodiment;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of thegame system of the embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a descriptive view for describing a table of the embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a descriptive view for describing a table of the embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a descriptive view for describing a table of the embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a descriptive view for describing a table of the embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a descriptive view for describing a table of the embodiment;

FIG. 9 is a descriptive view for describing a table of the embodiment;

FIG. 10 is a descriptive view for describing a table of the embodiment;

FIG. 11 is a descriptive view for describing a table of the embodiment;

FIG. 12 is a descriptive view for describing a table of the embodiment;

FIG. 13 is a flowchart for describing control operation of theembodiment;

FIG. 14 is a flowchart for describing control operation of theembodiment;

FIG. 15 is a flowchart for describing control operation of theembodiment;

FIG. 16 is a flowchart for describing control operation of theembodiment;

FIG. 17 is a descriptive view for describing a display screen of theplayer terminal of the embodiment;

FIG. 18 is a descriptive view for describing a main display device ofthe embodiment;

FIG. 19 is a descriptive view for describing the main display device ofthe embodiment;

FIG. 20 is a descriptive view for describing the main display device ofthe embodiment;

FIG. 21 is a descriptive view for describing the main display device ofthe embodiment;

FIG. 22 is a descriptive view for describing the main display device ofthe embodiment; and

FIG. 23 is a descriptive view for describing the main display device ofthe embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A game system will be described hereunder by reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of a game system 1according to an embodiment of the present invention. The game system 1is a so-called large-scaled gaming machine that provides a game in whicha plurality of players participate. The game system 1 is provided with amain unit 20 defining a game area having substantially rectangularshape, and a plurality of player terminals 30 arranged in the game area21.

The main unit 20 includes: a main display device 22 arranged along oneside of the game area 21; four speakers 23 arranged at corners of thegame area 21; and a main controller 80 that controls the main displaydevice 22 and the speakers 23.

The main display device 22 displays an image in accordance with imagedata output from the main controller 80. The main display device 22 maypreferably be a large-sized display device, such as a large-sizedmonitor device or a large-sized projection display device.

Each of the player terminals 30 is placed in the game area 21 to orienttoward the main display device 22. The main controller 80 establishesinteractive communication with each of the player terminals 30 via awireless LAN. The controller executes a predetermined game program andestablishes interactive communication with the respective playerterminals 30, thereby providing a game, such as a horse-racing game, inwhich a plurality of players participate. The game system 1 isconfigured as an example of a game system that provides game common to aplurality of players, the game in which the players make predictions onresults of the game (game results) and insert game medium, such ascoins, medals and tokens; and in which game medium is paid out to theplayers in accordance with awards determined based on the game results.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the appearance of each of theplayer terminals 30. Each of the player terminals 30 has a seat 31 and aterminal display 61.

The terminal display 61 is provided with: a first support arm 611supported by a side unit 60; a second support arm 612 attached to anleading end of the first support arm 611; and a sub-monitor 613 attachedto a leading end of the second support arm 612 and displays imagesrelated to the game thereon.

The first support arm 611 is extendable along the vertical directionwith respect to the side unit 60. The second support arm 612 isextendable and can be maintained at an arbitrary angle with respect tothe axial direction of the first support arm 611. The sub-monitor 13 canbe maintained at an arbitrary angle with respect to the axial directionof the second support arm 612.

The side unit 60 is equipped with a sub-monitor storage slot 62 thatextends in the vertical direction. The sub-monitor storage slot 62retractably stores the first support arm 611, the second support arm612, and the sub-monitor 613.

A terminal controller 150 is installed in the side unit 60. The terminalcontroller 150 is connected to the main controller 80 via the wirelessLAN and a plurality of slots 97 that stores circuit boards on whichcircuits that serves part of the terminal controller 150 is provided.

In accordance with a command received from the main controller 80, theterminal controller 150 controls the terminal display 61 and transmits asignal input through a operation unit 72 (which will be described later)to the main controller 80.

A cover 971 is reclosably attached to an upper portion of the slots 97.As shown in FIG. 2, a terminal control board 972 is insertable from theabove into the slots 97 by opening the cover 971.

A rear portion of a seat shell 70 extends upward and supports a backrestand a headrest. Speakers 70 are provided at both left and right sides ofthe headrest.

A rear side portion of the seat shell 70 also extends upward to preventother players from viewing a player who seats in a seat main body 50.

An operation unit 72, which is provided with a keyboard, a jog dial, andother input devices, is provided in the vicinity of a sidearm on a table71 at a position where the player who seats in the seat main body 50 caneasily operate the operation unit 72. The operation unit 72 is alsoprovided with a coin insertion slot 732, a start button, and a card slotthat allows the player to insert a credit card or a membership card.

In the embodiment, the operation unit 72 is provided on the table 71.However, the location of the operation unit is not limited on the tablebut may also be provided as a touch panel on the sub-monitor 613.

A coin payout opening 731, through which coins are paid out from a coinstorage provided in the side unit 60, and a coin receiving section,which receives the paid coins, are provided at positions beneath thetable 71 and in front of the sidearm. The coin receiving section isprovided with an unillustrated holder that retains a coin container.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the gamesystem 1. As shown in FIG. 3, eight player terminals 30 a-30 h and asever 200 are connected together by a network 300 (e.g., a wireless LAN,or the like). The player terminals 30 b-30 h, shown in FIG. 3, aresubstantially equal in configuration to the player terminal 30 a.Accordingly, the details of the player terminals 30 b-30 h are omittedin FIG. 3.

The player terminal 30 a includes the terminal controller 150, theoperation unit 72 connected to the terminal controller 150; the coinreceiving section; and the coin payout opening 731. The terminalcontroller 150 includes a terminal CPU 152 that serves as a processorcapable of executing various computer programs; a terminal RAM 154connected to the terminal CPU 152; a terminal ROM 156 connected to theterminal CPU 152; a terminal video controller 158 connected to theterminal CPU 152; a terminal audio controller 160 connected to theterminal CPU 152; and a terminal communication interface 162 connectedto the terminal CPU 152.

The terminal CPU 152 performs various types of process in accordancewith a program stored in the terminal ROM 156 and data stored in theterminal RAM 154. Accordingly, the terminal CPU 152 serves as varioustypes of means to be described later.

The terminal RAM 154 stores various flags and values of variables andserves as a temporal storage area for the terminal CPU 152. Forinstance, information about the side unit 60 to be operated by theplayer, information about an area owned by the player, and the like(terminal game information), are stored in the terminal RAM 154.

The terminal ROM 156 stores programs to be used for controlling theterminal 30 by the terminal CPU 152, and various tables are also storedin the terminal ROM 156.

The terminal video controller 158 includes a video data processor(hereinafter abbreviated as a “VDP”); an image data ROM that storesvarious types of image data; a digital-to-analogue (D/A) converter forconverting image data into an analogue image signal; and an initialreset circuit for generating a reset signal on power-up. The VDP is adevice that includes circuits, such as a so-called sprite circuit, ascreen circuit, and a palette circuit and which can perform variousprocess operations for causing the terminal display 61 to display animage. In short, the VDP performs display control of the terminaldisplay 61. The VDP is also equipped with a storage medium (e.g., videoRAM) serving as a buffer for displaying an image in a display area ofthe terminal display 61. Image data are stored in a predeterminedstorage area of the storage medium, whereupon an image is displayed inthe display area of the terminal display 61 at predetermined timing.

Various image data, such as character image data, background image data,and presentation image data are separately stored in the image data ROM.As a matter of course, relevant image data showing relevant images arealso stored in the image data ROM.

In accordance with an image display command supplied from the terminalCPU 152, the VDP reads, from the image data ROM, various types of imagedata, such as identification information image data for presentationpurpose, background image data, and presentation image data; andgenerates image data to be displayed on the terminal display 61. The VDPstores the thus-generated image data into a buffer such that image dataare sequentially superimposed on the image data located in a rearwardposition, and supplies the image data to the D/A converter atpredetermined timing. The D/A converter converts image data into animage signal and supplies this image signal to the terminal display 61,thereby causing the terminal display 61 to display an image.

The terminal audio controller 160 includes a sound source IC forcontrolling sound; sound data ROM which stores various pieces of sounddata; and an amplifier (hereinafter abbreviated as “AMP”) for amplifyinga sound signal.

The sound source IC is connected to the terminal CPU 152, the initialreset circuit, the sound data ROM, and the AMP. The sound source ICcontrols sound emitted from the speakers 75.

The terminal communication interface 162 is connected to the server 200through the network 300. The interface transmits a signal from theterminal CPU 152 to the server 200 and receives a signal transmittedfrom the server 200, and transfers the thus-received signal to theterminal CPU 152.

The operation unit 72 is provided along a frame of the main body of theplayer terminal. When operated by the player, the operation unit 72supplies the terminal controller 150 with a predetermined detectionsignal.

The coin receiving section is provided along the frame of the main bodyof the terminal 30. The coin receiving section has a coin detector. Agame medium such as coins inserted into the coin receiving section isdetected when passing by the coin detector. The coin receiving sectiontransmits a detection signal responsive to the detected game medium tothe terminal controller 150. The coin detector may also be any detectiondevice, such as an optical sensor and a proximity sensor.

The coin payout opening 731 is provided along the main body of theterminal 30. The coin payout opening 731 pays a game medium inaccordance with a payout signal transmitted from the terminal controller150.

The server 200 has a main controller 80. The main controller 80 includesa server CPU 252 that serves as various execution means; a server RAM254 connected to the server CPU 252; a server ROM 256 connected to theserver CPU 252; a server image output circuit 268 connected to theserver CPU 252; a server audio output circuit 260 connected to theserver CPU 252; and a server communication interface 262 connected tothe server CPU 252.

The server CPU 252 executes various process operations in accordancewith a game program stored in this server ROM 256. Thus, the server CPU252 serves as various means to be described later.

Various flags and values of variables are stored in the server RAM 254that serves as a temporal storage area for the server CPU 252.

The server ROM 256 stores a game program for controlling the operationof the server 200 by the server CPU 252; for example a program forproviding a horse-racing game.

The server image output circuit 268 includes an image data processor(hereinafter abbreviated as a “VDP”); an image data ROM which storesvarious types of image data; a digital-to-analogue (D/A) converter forconverting image data into an image signal; and an initial reset circuitfor generating a reset signal on power-up. The VDP is a device whichincludes circuits, such as a so-called sprite circuit, a screen circuit,and a palette circuit and which can perform various process operationsfor causing the main display device 22 to display an image. In short,the VDP performs display control of the main display device 22. The VDPis also equipped with a storage medium (e.g., video RAM) serving as abuffer for displaying an image in a display area of the main displaydevice 22. Image data are stored in a predetermined storage area of thestorage medium, whereupon an image is displayed in the display area ofthe main display device 22 at predetermined timing.

Various image data, such as character image data, background image data,and presentation image data are separately stored in the image data ROM.As a matter of course, relevant image data showing relevant images arealso stored in the image data ROM.

In accordance with an image display command supplied from the server CPU252, the VDP reads, from the image data ROM, various types of imagedata, such as identification information image data for presentationpurpose, background image data, and presentation image data; andgenerates image data to be displayed on the main display device 22. TheVDP stores the thus-generated image data into a buffer such that imagedata are sequentially superimposed on the image data located in arearward position, and supplies the image data to the D/A converter atpredetermined timing. This D/A converter converts image data into animage signal and supplies this image signal to the main display device22, thereby causing the main display device 22 to display an image.

The server audio output circuit 260 includes a sound source IC forcontrolling sound; a sound data ROM which stores various pieces of sounddata; and an amplifier (hereinafter abbreviated as “AMP”) for amplifyinga sound signal.

The sound source IC is connected to the server CPU 252, the initialreset circuit, the sound data ROM, and the AMP. The sound source ICcontrols sound emitted from the speakers 23.

The server communication interface 262 is connected to the playerterminals 30 through the network 300. The interface transmits a signalfrom the server CPU 252 to the plurality of player terminals 30 a-30 h,and receives signals transmitted from the plurality of player terminals30 a-30 h, and transfers the thus-received signals to the terminal CPU152.

In the game system 1, the player terminals 30 a-30 h are connected tothe server 200 through the network 300. However, the player terminals 30a-30 h may also be connected together through the network 300 withoutuse of the server 200.

FIGS. 4 and 5 show an entry table stored in the server ROM 256, in whichthe name, sex, and nation of each of horses entered in a race aredescribed. Six to twenty horses are randomly selected from the entrytable, and the thus-selected horses show up in the game. As shown inFIG. 4, for example, horse number 1 named “Isinglass” is a horse fromEngland. Further, horse number 2 named “Alycidon” is a horse fromEngland. Horse number 3 named “Val de Loir” is from France. Horse number4 named “Vaguely Noble” is a horse from Ireland. Horse number 5 named“War Admiral” is a horse from US. Although unillustrated, a plurality ofparameters indicating various capabilities for each of the respectivehorses are also described in the entry table. Example parameters includea pedigree, stamina, speed, a tactics (a face-to-face tactics, a runawaytactics, or the like), a favorite race (e.g., a sprint, a long-distancerace, a steeplechase, and the like), and others. However, the parametersare not limited to these examples.

FIG. 6 shows a Japan-hosted race table which describes races held inJapan and which is stored in the server ROM 256. The race table storesdata pertaining to races, such as the names of races, courses of theraces, stakes for the first-to-third-place finishers, entry conditions,and the number of entries. Moreover, in relation to the races held inJapan, the amounts of stakes are expressed in Yen. As shown in FIG. 6,for example, the course of the Tenno-Sho (spring) is located in Kyoto,and the distance of the course is 3200 meters. Stakes for the first are13200 yen; stakes for the second are 5300 yen; and stakes for the thirdare 3300 yen. An entry condition is an old horse, and the number ofentries is; for example, 17. The course of the Shuka-Sho is located inKyoto, and the distance of the course is 2000 meters. Stakes for thefirst are 8900 yen; stakes for the second are 3600 yen; and stakes forthe third are 2200 yen. An entry condition is a three-year-old mare, andthe number of entries is; for example, 18. The course of the Kikuka-shois located in Kyoto, and the distance of the course is 3000 meters.Stakes for the first are 11200 yen; stakes for the second are 4500 yen;and stakes for the third are 2800 yen. An entry condition is athree-year-old horse, and the number of entries is; for example, 16. Thecourse of the Queen Elizabeth Cup is located in Kyoto, and the distanceof the course is 2200 meters. Stakes for the first are 10000 yen; stakesfor the second are 4000 yen; and stakes for the third are 2500 yen. Anentry condition is a three-year-old mare, and the number of entries is;for example, 18. Thus, various pieces of information about races held inJapan are stored.

FIG. 7 shows a France-hosted race table that describes races held inFrance and is stored in the server ROM 256. The France-hosted race tablestores data pertaining to races, such as the names of races, courses ofthe races, stakes for the first-to-third-place finishers, entryconditions, and the number of entries. The amounts of stakes areexpressed in Euro in connection with the races held in France. As shownin FIG. 7, for example, the course of the Prix Renaud du Vivier islocated in Auteuil, and the distance of the course is 4100-meterhurdles. Stakes for the first are 112,500 Euro; stakes for the secondare 55,000 Euro; and stakes for the third are 32,500 Euro. An entrycondition is a four-year-old thoroughbred, and the number of entries is;for example, 10. The course of Criterium de Saint-Cloud is located inSaint Cloud, and the distance of the course is 2000 meters. Stakes forthe first are 114,280 Euro; stakes for the second are 45,720 Euro; andstakes for the third are 22,860 Euro. An entry condition is atwo-year-old thoroughbred, and the number of entries is; for example, 5.The course of Prix Cambacere is located in Auteuil, and the distance ofthe course is 3600-meter hurdles. Stakes for the first are 112,500 Euro;stakes for the second are 55,000 Euro; and stakes for the third are32,500 Euro. An entry condition is a three-year-old thoroughbred, andthe number of entries is; for example, 10. The course of Prix MauriceCaillault is located in Auteuil, and the distance of the course is a4400-meter steeplechase. Stakes for the first are 135,000 Euro; stakesfor the second are 66,000 Euro; and stakes for the third are 39,000Euro. An entry condition is a four-year-old thoroughbred, and the numberof entries is; for example, 11. Thus, various pieces of informationabout races held in France are stored.

FIG. 8 shows a Dubai-hosted race table that describes races held in theUAE (Dubai) and which is stored in the server ROM 256. The Dubai-hostedrace table stores data pertaining to races, such as the names of races,courses of the races, stakes for the first-to-third-place finishers,entry conditions, and the number of entries. The amounts of stakes areexpressed in dollars in connection with the races held in Dubai. Asshown in FIG. 8, for example, the course of Dubai World Cup is locatedin Nad Al Sheba, and the distance of the course is 2000 meters. Stakesfor the first are 3,600,000 dollars; stakes for the second are 1,200,000dollars; and stakes for the third are 600,000 dollars. An entrycondition is a thoroughbred of four years old or more (a thoroughbredwhich is three years old or more and which was bread in the SouthernHemisphere), and the number of entries is; for example, 12. The courseof Dubai Duty Free is located in Nad Al Sheba, and the distance of thecourse is 1777 meters. Stakes for the first are 3,000,000 dollars;stakes for the second are 1,000,000 dollars; and stakes for the thirdare 500,000 dollars. An entry condition is a thoroughbred of four yearsold or more and which was bread in the Northern Hemisphere (athoroughbred which is three years old or more and which was bread in theSouthern Hemisphere), and the number of entries is; for example, 14. Thecourse of Dubai Sheema Classic is located in Nad Al Sheba, and thedistance of the course is 2400 meters. Stakes for the first are3,000,000 dollars; stakes for the second are 1,000,000 dollars; andstakes for the third are 500,000 dollars. An entry condition is athoroughbred of four years old or more, and the number of entries is;for example, 11. The course of Dubai Golden Shaheen is located in Nad AlSheba, and the distance of the course is 1200 meters. Stakes for thefirst are 1,200,000 dollars; stakes for the second are 400,000 dollars;and stakes for the third are 200,000 dollars. An entry condition is athree-year-old thoroughbred, and the number of entries is; for example,11. Thus, various pieces of information about races held in Dubai arestored.

FIG. 9 shows an UK-hosted race table which shows races held in UnitedKingdom and which is stored in the server ROM 256. The UK-hosted racetable stores data pertaining to races, such as the names of races,courses of the races, stakes for the first-to-third-place finishers,entry conditions, and the number of entries. In connection with theraces held in England, the amounts of stakes are expressed in pounds,and a distance is expressed in miles. As shown in FIG. 9, for example,the course of Racing Post Trophy is located in Doncaster, and thedistance of the course is one mile. Stakes for the first are 120,000pounds; stakes for the second are 46,000 pounds; and stakes for thethird are 23,000 pounds. An entry condition is a two-year-oldthoroughbred mare, and the number of entries is; for example, 8. Thecourse of Champion stakes is located in Newmarket, and the distance ofthe course is 10 furlongs. Stakes for the first are 215,064 pounds;stakes for the second are 81,576 pounds; and stakes for the third are40,788 pounds. An entry condition is a thoroughbred of three years oldor more, and the number of entries is; for example, 11. The course ofDewhurst Stakes is located in Newmarket, and the distance of the courseis seven furlongs. Stakes for the first are 152,772 pounds; stakes forthe second are 57,948 pounds; and stakes for the third are 28,974pounds. An entry condition is a two-year-old thoroughbred, and thenumber of entries is; for example, 9. The course of Sun Chariot Stakesis located in Newmarket, and the distance of the course is one mile.Stakes for the first are 116,000 pounds; stakes for the second are44,000 pounds; and stakes for the third are 22,000 pounds. An entrycondition is a thoroughbred mare of three years old or more, and thenumber of entries is; for example, 5. Thus, various pieces ofinformation about races held in England are stored.

Herein, the race tables pertaining to the races held in Japan, France,Dubai, and United Kingdom are described. However, the game system 1 maybe configured to store race tables pertaining to races held in othercountries, such as Hong Kong, Italy, or the like.

FIG. 10 shows an example of an exchange rate table. As shown in FIG. 10,one yen is converted into; for example, 0.00848 dollars, 0.00668 Euro,and 0.00453 pounds. One dollar converted into 117.88 yen, 0.7877 Euro,and 0.5335 pounds. One Euro is converted into 149.6889 yen, 1.26952dollars, and 0.67729 pounds. One pound is converted into 220.9146 yen,1.87441 dollars, and 1.47648 Euro. For instance, when a Japanese playerenters any of the races held in Dubai, the player acquires stakes indollars and hence receives the stakes according to this exchange ratetable. When the player bets on any of the races held in Dubai, an awardis determined in dollars. The award that is actually paid out changesaccording to this exchange rate.

FIG. 11 shows an example of a popularity table stored in the server ROM256. As shown in FIG. 11, when the percentage of popularity based on allof predictions input respectively by each of the players who participatein the game falls within a range from 0% to 20%, a game condition A(e.g., a racetrack which poses difficult to the horse) is selected. Whenthe percentage of popularity falls within a range from 21% to 50%, agame condition B (e.g., a weather which poses difficulty to the horse)is selected. When the percentage of popularity falls within a range from51% to 74%, a game condition C (e.g., the horse gains weight) isselected. When the percentage of popularity falls within a range from75% to 100%, a game condition D (e.g., an increase in the number ofjockeys) is selected.

FIG. 12 is a descriptive view showing an example of a payout ratio tablestored in the server ROM 256. The ratio of amount to be paid out changesaccording to a game result. When a game result is achievement of a winby ten lengths, the ratio of payout comes to 100%. When the game resultis achievement of a win by five lengths, the ratio of payout comes to50%. When the game result is achievement of a win by three lengths, theratio of payout comes to 20%. When the game result is achievement of awin by two lengths, the ratio of payout comes to 10%. As mentionedabove, the server ROM 256 is an example of game condition storage unitwhich stores game conditions including award data and game resultinfluence data affecting a game result. Although the embodiment hasdescribed example game results and example ratios of awards, the presentinvention is not limited to these examples. Other game results andratios of awards may also be adopted.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a main process of the game provided bythe game system 1.

When the main process is started, a player seating process is performedin step S1. In step S1, the server CPU 252 performs the player seatingprocess for initializing a variety of variables and flags in response toseating of the player in the terminal 30. When the process in step S1 iscompleted, the process proceeds to step S2.

In step S2, the server CPU 252 performs an insertion process in responseto the player having inserted a coin into the coin insertion slot 732.The insertion process will be described later. When the process in stepS2 is completed, the process proceeds to step S3. As mentioned above,the coin insertion slot 732 is an example of game medium input unit byway of which each of the players inserts a game medium by means ofmaking predictions.

In step S3, the server CPU 252 performs a process for unlocking amonitor and a seat. When the process in step S3 is completed, theprocess proceeds to step S4.

In step S4, the server CPU 252 performs process for adjusting themonitor and the seat. When the process in step S4 is completed, theprocess proceeds to step S5.

In step S5 the server CPU 252 performs a game execution process. Thegame execution process will be described later. When the process in stepS5 is completed, the process proceeds to step S6. As mentioned above,the CPU 252 serves as a game execution controller for controllingexecution of a common game.

In step S6, the server CPU 252 performs a payout process for paying outa game medium, such as coins, from a coin payout opening 731. The payoutprocess will be described later. When the process in step S6 iscompleted, the process proceeds to step S7. As mentioned above, the coinpayout opening 731 serves as a payout unit for paying out a game mediumaccording to an award for a game result.

In step S7, the server CPU 252 performs process for retracting a monitorand initializing a seat. When the process in step S7 is completed, themain game process is terminated.

A subroutine executed in step S3 shown in FIG. 13 will be described byreference to FIG. 14.

In step S210, a game medium count determination process is performed.During this process, the server CPU 252 receives a signal transmittedfrom the terminal 30 in response to detection of a game medium, such asa coin, inserted into the coin insertion opening 732 of each of the gameplayer terminals 30. In accordance with the received signal, the serverCPU 252 performs process for determining which one of the playerterminals 30 has received inserted game mediums and for determining theamounts (number) of inserted game medium; namely, game medium countdetermination process. When the process is completed, the processproceeds to step S212. The coin insertion slot 732 serves as a gamemedium input unit that allows the player to input a game medium.

In step S212, the server CPU 252 performs a deposit game medium countstorage process. In this process, the server CPU 252 stores into theserver RAM 254 the number of game mediums inserted in each of the playerterminals 30 determined in step S210. The server CPU 252 also storesinto the server RAM 254, as a deposit game medium count, a predeterminedproportion (e.g., 10% or the like) of total number of game mediumsinserted in all of the player terminals 30. When the process iscompleted, the process proceeds to step S214. The server RAM 254 is anexample of deposit game medium count storage unit that stores thedeposit game medium count that describes the predetermined proportion oftotal number of game mediums inserted into the game medium input unit(all of the player terminals 30). In the embodiment, 10% is described byway of example of a predetermined proportion. However, the predeterminedproportion is not limited to this value. Other proportion; for example,5%, 15%, 20%, 25%, and 30%, may also be adopted.

In step S214, the server CPU 252 performs a process for determiningwhether or not the deposit game medium count is equal to or greater thana predetermined number (predetermined count). After this process, theserver CPU 252 proceeds the process to S218 when determined that thedeposit game medium count stored in step S212 is equal to or greaterthan a predetermined number. The server CPU 252 proceeds the process tostep S216 when determined that the game medium is less than thepredetermined number. As described herein, the server CPU 252 serves asan example of a deposit game medium count determination unit thatdetermines whether or not the deposit game medium count stored in thedeposit game medium count storage unit is equal to or greater than apredetermined number.

In step S216, process for setting 0 on a predetermined condition flag isperformed. During this process, the server CPU 252 performs process forsetting 0 on the predetermined condition flag stored in the server RAM254. When process is completed, this subroutine is terminated.

In step S218, process for setting one on a predetermined condition flagis performed. During process, the server CPU 252 performs process forsetting one on a predetermined condition flag stored in the server RAM254. When the process is completed, this subroutine is terminated.

The subroutine executed in step S5 shown in FIG. 13 is described byreference to FIG. 15.

In step S510, the server CPU 252 performs a process for preliminarilyselecting a game condition used for a current game from a plurality ofgame conditions stored in the server ROM 256, in accordance with theresult of a previous game stored in the server RAM 254. Morespecifically, when the Arab horse, such as a Godolphin Arabian, has wona previous race of the horseracing game, there is performed process for:selecting the Dubai-hosted race table (see FIG. 8) as a game condition;selecting a race used for the current game from the Dubai-hosted racetable; and storing the selected race into the server RAM 254. Moreover,the server CPU 252 selects horses to be employed in the current gamefrom an entry table of horses (see FIGS. 4 and 5). For instance, whenthe Dubai World Cup has been selected, 12 horses are selected. Moreover,when an oversea race table [e.g., Dubai-hosted race table (see FIG. 8)or the like] has been selected, the server CPU 252 sets one on anexchange flag and stores the flag into the server RAM 254. When theprocess is completed, process proceeds to step S512. As mentioned above,the server CPU 252 is an example of game condition selection unit whichselects a game condition for the next common game from the plurality ofgame conditions, in accordance with a result of a game executed by thegame execution controller.

In the embodiment, the race sites and the horses are described by way ofexample of the game condition to be selected. However, other types ofgame conditions may also be adopted in the game system 1.

In step S512, a game condition presentation image display process isperformed. During this process, the server CPU 252 selects from theserver ROM 256 data for use in displaying a game condition presentationimage in accordance with the game condition selected in step S514;stores the thus-selected data into the server RAM 254; and transmits theselected data to the server image output circuit 268. In accordance withthe data sent from the server CPU 252 for use in displaying the gamecondition presentation image, the VDP in the server image output circuit268 reads from the image data ROM various pieces of image data, such asbackground image data and presentation image data; superimposes thethus-read pieces of image data one on top of the other; and displays theresultant image in a display area 22A of the main display device 22.More specifically, an image of the race site and images of horsesparticipating in the race are displayed. When the process is completed,process proceeds to step S514. As mentioned above, the server imageoutput circuit 268 serves as a display controller which controlsdisplaying of a presentation image compliant with the game conditionselected by the game condition selection unit.

Instep S514, the server CPU 252 performs a prediction input process forreceiving a prediction input by means of a prediction data signaltransmitted from the terminal 30 in accordance with a prediction inputby the player through the operation unit 72. When the process iscompleted, the process proceeds to step S516. The operation unit 72serves as a prediction input unit by way which each of the playersinputs a prediction about a game result.

In the game system 1 according to the embodiment, when the player inputsthe prediction, at least a part of the game medium (coins, tokens, orcredits) input to the game player terminal 30 in which the player isseated, is consumed.

In step S516, the server CPU 252 performs a prediction data storageprocess for storing, into the server RAM 254, the prediction datadetermined from the prediction data signal received in step S516. Whenthe process is completed, process proceeds to step S518. The server RAM254 serves as a prediction storage unit which stores prediction datacompliance with a prediction input by the prediction input unit.

In step S518, the server CPU 252 performs a prediction data percentagedetermination process for determining the percentage of prediction datastored in the server RAM 254. More specifically, the server CPU 252performs process for determining whether or not the popularity of acertain horse has exceeded a predetermined percentage in accordance withprediction data, by reference to a popularity table (see FIG. 11) storedin the server ROM 256. When the process is completed, process proceedsto step S520. The server CPU 252 serves as a determination unit whichdetermines whether or not specific prediction data among a plurality ofpieces of prediction data stored in the prediction storage unit arestored in a predetermined percentage or more. The server CPU 252 servesas a determination unit which determines the prediction data stored inthe prediction storage unit.

In step S520, a game condition selection process is performed. Duringprocess, the server CPU 252 performs process for selecting a gamecondition in accordance with a determination rendered in step S518. Morespecifically, the server CPU 252 refers to the popularity table (seeFIG. 11) stored in the server ROM 256. When the percentage of popularityfalls within a range from 75% to 100%, the CPU selects a game conditionD (e.g., an increase in the number of jockeys). When the process iscompleted, process proceeds to step S522.

As mentioned above, the server CPU 252 is an example game conditionselection unit which selects one game condition from a plurality of gameconditions stored in the game condition storage unit in accordance withthe prediction data stored in the prediction storage unit. As mentionedabove, the server CPU 252 is an example of game condition selection unitwhich selects a game condition from a plurality of game conditionsstored in the game condition storage unit. As mentioned above, theserver CPU 252 is an example of game condition selection which selects apredetermined game condition from a plurality of game conditions inaccordance with a result of determination rendered by the deposit gamemedium count determination unit. As mentioned above, the server CPU 252is an example of game condition selection unit which selects apredetermined game condition from the plurality of game conditions, inaccordance with a result of determination rendered by the deposit gamemedium count determination unit. As mentioned above, the server CPU 252is an example of game condition selection unit for selecting a specialgame status having game result influence data which make a game resultachieved from specific prediction data more disadvantageous than gameresults achieved from the other prediction data, in accordance with adetermination result of the determination unit. As mentioned above, theserver ROM 256 is an example of game condition storage unit which storesa plurality of game conditions for the common game.

In the embodiment, game conditions are selected such that a certainhorse becomes disadvantageous. However, the game system 1 may beconfigured that the game conditions is selected such that a certainhorse becomes advantageous. In this case, getting on the bandwagonbecomes more definite, and the betting rate of an unpopular horse isincreased, thereby enabling enhancement of the players' pleasure to aimat the jackpot.

In step S522, game condition setting process is performed. Duringprocess, the server CPU 252 performs process for setting a gamecondition selected in step S520 and storing the thus-set game conditioninto the server RAM 254. When the process is completed, process proceedsto step S524. Thus, the server CPU 252 is an example of game executioncontroller which executes a game compliant with the predetermined gamecondition selected by the game condition selection unit. The server CPU252 is an example of game execution controller which controls executionof a common game in accordance with the game condition selected by thegame condition selection unit. Moreover, the server ROM 256 is anexample of a game condition storage unit which stores game conditionsincluding award data and game result influence data affecting gameresults.

In step S524, there is performed process for determining whether or notinput of prediction data is completed. During process, when the serverCPU 252 has determined completion of a predetermined input period (e.g.,60 seconds) and the input of prediction data, process proceeds to stepS526. When the input of prediction data is determined not to becompleted, process proceeds to step S514.

In step S526, the server CPU 252 performs process for generating randomnumbers for use in a game (e.g., numbers from 0 to 65535). The CPU 252proceeds the process to step S528 when step S526 is completed.

In step S528, a game result table reference process is performed. Duringprocess, the server CPU 252 performs process referring to the gameresult table stored in the server ROM 256 by use of the random numbergenerated in step S526. More specifically, the server CPU 252 refers tothe game result table by means of taking, as a variable, the gamecondition selected in step S510 or S520 and set in step S522, therebydetermining game results (e.g., the ranks of the horses, development ofa race, and the like). When the process is completed, process proceedsto step S530. Thus, the server CPU 252 is an example of game executioncontroller which executes a common game compliant with the gamecondition selected by the game condition selection unit.

In step S530, a presentation image display process is performed. Duringthis process, the server CPU 252 selects, from the server ROM 256, datafor use in displaying a presentation image; stores the thus-selecteddata into the server RAM 254; and transmits the data to the server imageoutput circuit 268. In accordance with the data sent from the server CPU252 for use in displaying the presentation image, the VDP in the serverimage output circuit 268 reads from the image data ROM various pieces ofimage data, such as background image data and presentation image data;superimposes the thus-read pieces of image data one on top of the other;and displays the resultant image in the display area 22A of the maindisplay device 22. When process is completed, this subroutine isterminated. As mentioned above, the main display device 22 is an exampleof display unit for displaying a common game in the form of apresentation image. Thus, the server image output circuit 268 is anexample of display controller which controls displaying of apresentation image performed by the display unit.

The sub-routine executed in step S6 shown in FIG. 13 is described indetail by reference to FIG. 16.

In step S610, a process for determining whether or not the exchange rateflag assumes a value of one. During this process, when determining thatthe exchange rte flag stored in the server RAM 254 assumes a value ofone, the server CPU 252 proceeds the process to step S612. When notdetermining that the exchange rate flag assumes a value of one, theserver CPU 252 proceeds the process to step S614. Thus, the server CPU252 is an example of payout controller which controls payment of a gamemedium conforming to the exchange rate of the game condition selected bythe game condition selection unit in connection with the awardcorresponding to the game result.

Instep S612, exchange rate reference process is performed. Duringprocess, the server CPU 252 stores an exchange rate (e.g., a rate ofexchange of a dollar to a yen in the case of the Dubai World Cup) intothe server RAM 254, by reference to the exchange rate table (see FIG.10) stored in the server ROM 256. When the process is completed, processproceeds to step S614. As mentioned above, the server ROM 256 is anexample of game condition storage unit which stores a game conditionhaving exchange rates for respective game conditions. The server CPU 252is an example of payout controller which performs control operation forpaying game mediums conforming to the exchange rate of the gamecondition selected by the game condition selection unit in connectionwith the award corresponding to the game result. Although the embodimenthas described that the exchange rates are stored in the ROM, the presentinvention is not limited to the embodiment. The exchange rates may alsobe stored in RAM, and the exchange rates may also be updated. Forinstance, a game closer to an actual environment can be provided as aresult of exchange rates being changed day by day.

In step S614, there is performed process for determining whether or nota special game status flag is “1”. When the server CPU 252 determinesthat the special game status flag stored in the server RAM 254 is “1”,the process proceeds to step S616. When the CPU 252 determines that thespecial game status flag is not “1”, the process proceeds to step S618.

In step S616, a special game result determination process is performed.During this process, the server CPU 252 performs process for determininga result of a special game in accordance with a random number generatedin step S526. More specifically, the server CPU 252 determines theresult of a special game in accordance with the random number generatedin step S526; determines a payout ratio from the result of this specialgame by reference to the payout ratio table (see FIG. 12); and storesthe thus-determined payout ratio into the server RAM 254. When theprocess is completed, process proceeds to step S618. As mentioned above,the server CPU 252 is an example of payout controller which, when thegame execution controller has executed a game compliant with thepredetermined game condition and when a special game result is obtainedin the game, performs control operation for paying out a predeterminednumber of game mediums from the deposit game medium count stored in thedeposit game medium count storage unit. Thus, the server CPU 252 servesas an example of a payout controller that, when the game executioncontroller provides a game compliant with the predetermined gamecondition, performs control operation for paying out the number of gamemediums corresponding to the result of the game from the deposit gamemedium count stored in the deposit game medium count storage unit.Although the embodiment is described that a reference is made to therandom number generated in step S526, the game system 1 may beconfigured that other random number may also be generated.

In step S618, an award data reference process is performed. During thisprocess, the server CPU 252 performs process for storing an award byreference to the award table in accordance with the random numbergenerated in step S526. When the process is completed, process proceedsto step S620. The server CPU 252 is an example of payout controllerwhich performs control operation for paying a game medium correspondingto the game result, by reference to the award data compliant with thegame condition selected by the game condition selection unit. Further,the server ROM 256 is an example of game condition storage unit whichstores a plurality of game conditions having award data corresponding toa game result for each of the game conditions. The server ROM 256 is anexample of game condition storage unit which stores a game conditionincluding award data and game result influence data affecting gameresults.

In step S620, the server CPU 252 performs a payout count determinationprocess. The server CPU 252 performs process for determining payout datacorresponding to the amount of a payout for each of the player terminalsby means of taking, as a variable, a payout ratio determined from aresult of a special game or an award determined in step S618; and forstoring the thus-determined ward in the server RAM 254. When the processis completed, process proceeds to step S622. The server CPU 252 servesas an example of a payout controller that performs control operation forpaying out a game medium corresponding to an exchange rate of the gamecondition selected by the game condition selection unit in connectionwith the award corresponding to the game result. The server CPU 252serves as an example of a payout controller that, when the gameexecution controller executes a game compliant with the predeterminedgame condition and when a special game result is obtained in the game,performs control operation for paying out a predetermined number of gamemediums from the deposit game medium count stored in the deposit gamemedium count storage unit. The server CPU 252 serves as an example of apayout controller that, when the game execution controller provides agame compliant with the predetermined game condition, performs controloperation for paying the number of game mediums corresponding to theresult of the game from the deposit game medium count stored in thedeposit game medium count storage unit.

In step S622, a payout device drive process is performed. Duringprocess, the server CPU 252 transmits, to each of the player terminals30, a payout signal originating from the payout data stored in each ofthe player terminals 30 in step S620. In accordance with the receivedpayout signal, the terminal CPU 152 of each of the player terminals 30pays the game medium (e.g., coins) from the coin payout opening 731.When process is completed, the subroutine is terminated. Thus, theserver CPU 252 is an example of payout controller which control paymentof a game medium compliant with an award corresponding to the gameresult.

An example of a help screen displayed on the terminal display 61 isshown in FIG. 17. As shown in FIG. 17, WIN is a ticket for betting on ahorse which will come first in a race. SHOW is a ticket for betting onhorses which will come first to third in a race. BRACKET-QUINELLA is aticket for betting on combination of bracket numbers assigned to horseswhich will come first and second in a race. QUINELLA is a ticket forbetting on a combination of horses which will come first and second orsecond and first. EXACTA is a ticket for betting on numbers assigned tohorses which will come first and second in exact order. QUINELLA-PLACEis a ticket for betting on a combination of horses which will come firstand second (or second and first), a combination of horses which willcome first and third (or third and first), and a combination of horseswhich will come second and third (or third and second). TRIO is a ticketfor betting on numbers assigned to horses which will come first, second,and third without specifying their order of finishing. Displaying thesehelp screens enables provision of a game system by means of which even abeginner player can enjoy a game. Thus, the terminal display 61 is anexample of auxiliary display unit for displaying a player assist screen.

FIG. 18 is an example of a display screen showing that horseracing isbeing performed. Horseracing is being performed in the display area 22A.Character images 90A to 90D (e.g., racehorses respectively assignednumbers) are displayed in the display area 22A.

FIG. 19 is an example of a display screen showing the area near a goal.Horseracing is being performed in the display area 22A. The display area22A displays a character image 90A (e.g., a racehorse assigned No. 8).The character image 90A has arrived at the goal and won a prize.Further, a character image 90B (e.g., a character image of a racehorse)is displayed behind the character image 90A in the display area 22A. Inthe display area 22A, a character image 90C (e.g., a character image ofa racehorse assigned No. 2) is displayed behind the character image 90Ain the display area 22A. A character image 90D (e.g., a character imageof a racehorse assigned No. 5) is displayed behind the character image90A in the display area 22A. In this case, the character image 90A haswon a prize. For instance, the player who has made a bet on thecharacter image 90A can acquire a predetermined payout.

FIG. 20 is a display screen showing that a race is being performed whilea game status is selected according to the result of the previous game.For instance, a display screen achieved when an Arab horse won a prizein the previous game is provided. A background image 90F (a characterimage of; e.g., a desert) showing that the race is held in the gamestatus Dubai according to the result of the previous game. Further, thecharacter images 90A to 90D (e.g., the racehorses assigned numbers) aredisplayed in the display area 22A.

FIG. 21 is a display screen showing the area near the goal when a gameis being performed under a specific game condition. Horseracing is beingperformed in the display area 22A. The character image 90A (e.g., aracehorse assigned No. 8) is displayed in the display area 22A. Thecharacter image 90A won a prize by three lengths over the characterimage B running behind the character image 90A. Moreover, the characterimage 90B (e.g., a character image of a racehorse assigned No. 7) isdisplayed behind the character image 90A in the display area 22A. Acharacter image 90C (e.g., a character image of a racehorse assigned No.2) is displayed behind the character image 90A in the display area 22A.Further, a character image 90D (e.g., a character image of a racehorseassigned No. 5) is displayed behind the character image 90A in thedisplay area 22 a. In the display area 22A, a character image E (e.g., acharacter image of a goal) is displayed. As mentioned above, when thehorse has won a prize by three lengths in a specific game, apredetermined award (see FIG. 12) is paid out.

FIG. 22 is a display screen showing that a race in which a game statushas changed according to a prediction is being performed. Horseracing isbeing performed in the display area 22A. The character images 90A to 90D(e.g., racehorses respectively assigned numbers) are displayed in thedisplay area 22A. The display area 22A shows the character image 90G(e.g., a character image of rain). Appearance 6f the character image 90Gshows worsening of the game condition for the horses that are weak inrain.

FIG. 23 is an example of a display screen showing that the race in whichgame status has changed according to a prediction is being performed.Horseracing is being performed in the display area 22A. The characterimage 90A (e.g., a racehorse which is running while carrying threejockeys and which is assigned No. 8) is displayed in the display area22A. The racehorse carrying a plurality of jockeys shows worsening ofthe game condition for the character image 90A. The character image 90B(e.g., a character image of a racehorse assigned No. 7) is displayedbehind the character image 90A in the display area 22A. The characterimage 90C (e.g., a character image of a racehorse assigned No. 2) isdisplayed behind the character image 90A in the display area 22A. Thecharacter image 90D (e.g., a character image of a racehorse assigned No.5) is displayed behind the character image 90A in the display area 22A.

As described above with reference to the embodiment, according to aresult of execution of the game, a game condition for the next commongame is selected from the plurality of game conditions in accordancewith a result of execution of a game, and a presentation imagecorresponding to the selected game condition is displayed. For instance,when an Arab horse, such as a Darley Arabian, has won a prize in ahorseracing game system, an image of the Nad Al Sheba Racecourse locatedin Dubai is displayed as the site for the next race. As mentioned above,a background image of the type determined according to a result of thegame is displayed as a portion of a presentation image for the nextgame, thereby enabling the players to enjoy a game to a much greaterextent. Therefore, there is provided a game system that provides a gamein which a presentation image changes according to a progress in a gamein order to cause the players to further enjoy the game.

Moreover, as mentioned above, award data corresponding to a result ofthe game for each game condition are provided. A game mediumcorresponding to a result of the game is paid by reference to the awarddata. The horseracing game system can be arranged such that awardschange according to the type of a displayed background image; forexample, awards increase as a result of appearance of, as a backgroundimage, France where Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe is held or UAE where theDubai World Cup is held. Therefore, there can be provided a game systemin which a presentation image changes according to a progress in game inorder to make players enjoy to a much greater extent.

Further, as mentioned above, a game medium conforming to an exchangerate of a selected game condition is paid in connection with the awardcorresponding to a result of the game. In the case where the selectedgame condition is the Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe of France, thehorseracing game system selects, as an exchange rate, an exchange ratebetween a franc and a yen. For instance, provided that an award is 100franc, an award of game medium matching the exchange rate is paid. Thus,a background image of displayed type and an exchange rate are setaccording to a game condition. An award can be paid according to the setexchange rate. Therefore, there can be provided a game system in which apresentation image changes according to a progress in game in order tomake players enjoy to a much greater extent.

In the above description of the embodiment, it is described that thegame system 1 is configured to allow the players to “input” the gamemedium into the player terminals 30 (game medium input unit), morespecifically, into the coin insertion slot 732, at the insertion process(step S2), and that the player's prediction (bet) is made in the gameexecution process (step S5). In the game system 1 described as theembodiment, the deposit game medium count is determined as apredetermined proportion of the total number of the game medium “input”into all of the player terminals 30.

However, the game system 1 may alternatively be configured that thedeposit game medium count is determined as a predetermined proportion ofthe total number of the game medium (coins, medals, or credits) beingbet (predicted) in all of the player terminals 30 by each of the playersfor each round of the game. When the game system 1 is thus configured,the input of the predictions (bet) into each of the player terminals 30is considered as the “input” of the game medium.

The present invention is not limited to the previously-describedembodiment. The game system according to the present invention may beapplied with various improvements or alterations without departing fromthe scope of the claimed invention.

As described above, there is provided a game system that provides a gamein which a background image of a type determined in accordance with aresult of the game is displayed according to a result of the game as aportion of a presentation image for the next game, thereby enablingplayers to enjoy a game to a much greater extent, and there can beprovided a game system in which a presentation image changes accordingto a progress in game in order to make players enjoy a game to a muchgreater extent.

1. A game system that provides a game in which a plurality of playersparticipate, the game system comprising: a main display; a plurality ofplayer terminals that are provided for each of the players, each of theplayer terminals being provided with a game medium input unit thatallows the respective players to input game medium; and a maincontroller that is connected to the main display and the playerterminals and operates to: control the main display to display an imagefor providing the game; store a plurality of game conditions that definedifferent conditions for playing the game; select one from among thestored game conditions in accordance with a result of a previous game;provide the game to the players under the selected game condition whilecontrolling the main display to display a presentation image that isdefined for the selected game condition; and provide an award to aplayer who wins the game.
 2. The game system according to claim 1,wherein the main controller operates to pay out a predetermined numberof the game medium as the award to the player who wins the game inaccordance with a result of the game.
 3. The game system according toclaim 1, wherein each of the game conditions contains award data thatdefines the award to be provided for each of the game conditions, andwherein the main controller provides the award to the player who winsthe game by referring to the award data that corresponds to the selectedgame condition.
 4. The game system according to claim 1, wherein each ofthe game conditions contains exchange rate data that defines an exchangerate for each of the game conditions, and wherein the main controllerprovides the award to the player who wins the game in accordance withthe exchange rate data that corresponds to the selected game condition.5. A game system that provides a common game in which a plurality ofplayers participate; the common game in which the respective playerspredict result of the game and insert game medium; and in which gamemedium is paid out according to an award corresponding to result of thegame, the game system comprising: a game execution controller thatcontrols execution of the common game; a payout controller that performscontrol operation for paying out the game medium according to the awardcorresponding to the result of the game; a display unit that displaysthe common game as a presentation image; a display controller thatcontrols the display unit to display the presentation image; a gamecondition storage unit that stores a plurality of game conditions forthe common game; and a game condition selection unit that selects onefrom among the plurality of game conditions stored in the game conditionstorage unit, wherein the game condition selection unit selects the gamecondition for the next common game from among the game conditionsaccording to a result of a game executed by the game executioncontroller, wherein the game execution controller executes the commongame compliant with the game condition selected by the game conditionselection unit, and wherein the display controller performs controloperation for displaying the presentation image compliant with the gamecondition selected by the game condition selection unit.
 6. The gamesystem according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of game conditionsstored in the game condition storage unit contains award datacorresponding to the result of the game for each of the game conditions,and wherein the payout controller performs control operation for payingout a game medium in accordance with the result of the game by referringto the award data pertaining to the game condition selected by the gamecondition selection unit.
 7. The game system according to claim 1,wherein the game condition stored in the game condition storage unitcontains exchange rate data that defines an exchange rate for each ofthe game conditions, and wherein the payout controller performs controloperation for paying out the game medium conforming to the exchange rateof the game condition selected by the game condition selection unit inconnection with the award corresponding to the result of the game.